Z-10

China's medium attack helicopter — a tandem-seat, twin-engine design built around the indigenous WZ-9 turboshaft, fielded by the PLA since 2009 and exported as the Z-10ME.

Overview

The Z-10 (industrial designation WZ-10, Chinese nickname “Fierce Thunderbolt” / Pili Huo) is a dedicated medium attack helicopter developed by the AVIC-led Changhe Aircraft Industries. It entered People’s Liberation Army service in 2009 and, according to the IISS Military Balance 2023 as cited by Defense News, more than 200 Z-10s and variants serve with the PLA Ground Force Aviation and the PLAAF. In 2025 Pakistan became the first foreign operator after inducting the upgraded Z-10ME, which has reportedly flown the type’s first combat missions.

🔒 The full Z-10 file is for BattlePolicy Pro members. Below the line: development history, design and capabilities, variants, the combat record, advantages and limitations, comparable systems, outlook, the full specifications table, our sourcing, and the analyst assessment — procurement, suppliers and the BattlePolicy verdict. Unlock the full file with BattlePolicy Pro →